Homelessness was identified as one of the top three issues for our city over the next five years by city residents in Durango’s Community Satisfaction Survey.
The City needs to listen to the community by prioritizing collaboration and cooperation with the county and non-profits to work on the challenge of homelessness.
Homelessness is a complex and long-term issue. It must be addressed by supporting the development of safe and secure shelter for all homeless, which may mean different types of housing or shelter for the different situations of individuals and families that are homeless.
The city has a model that supports community non-profits that could serve as a way forward. The city contributes by providing a location and the non-profits use their expertise to create, manage and operate the services. Why not do this for all homeless?
Perhaps, the non-profit and faith-based communities could help in the short term by each providing temporary shelter for just one or two individuals.
Kim Baxter
Durango
